Space Considerations
It is important to designate a specific space in the classroom for the maker space. This will help both teachers and students in developing a maker mindset.
Space
you may use any table at which four to six students can stand or sit comfortably (Plans for a DIY table can be found below)
the table will get messy, do not use anything you will worry about getting glue, tape, or colors on
dedicate a wall near the maker space to either hang examples or display student work
Storage
you will need storage for materials, tools, and student work
Materials and tools are best stored in clear bins
student work that is in progress can be stored in shoe boxes
utilizing both the lid ad the box separately
consider whether you store projects in a group box or individually
if you have open shelves, consider using this space to store student work
Setting up
when preparing the table for the week’s lessons, use two empty clear bins, about 6 quarts, to collect the materials needed for the lesson
tools should be stored on top of the table
place the materials and tools on the table as pictured here
DIY Maker Space Table Plans
These table plans are for the table pictured here. After researching maker spaces, I created these plans as the ideal table for a maker space. This table requires intermediate woodworking skills. Below you will find considerations for designing and building this table. You will also find PDF lists of required tools and materials and detailed instructions on the fabrication steps.
*Consider working with your local high school woodshop to have this table fabricated.
Considerations
Table size, specifically when transporting and fitting through interior doorways.
Height per student’s age, the table pictured here is 28 inches tall, a standard height for a second-grade student.
The cost-overall cost for materials is about $200 USD. This is much less than any table available on the market due to savings on manufacturing. For these reasons, you would need to build it yourself or have a volunteer build it.
Consider the possibility of partnering with the local high school woodshop to build.
construction-both form and function
safety and durability